Honouring Truth and Reconciliation: Orange Shirt Day at Ashwood Glen

Honouring Indigenous Voices on Orange Shirt Day

At the heart of a meaningful school experience is a community grounded in respect, empathy, and understanding. On Orange Shirt Day at Ashwood Glen, our students and staff came together to recognize and reflect on the history and ongoing impact of the residential school system in Canada, while honouring the voices and experiences of Indigenous communities.

Throughout the day, students engaged in meaningful, age-appropriate learning experiences designed to deepen their understanding of truth and reconciliation. Classrooms became spaces for thoughtful conversations, contemplation, and learning, as students explored the significance behind the message: “Every Child Matters.”

Here’s what made the day meaningful:

• Students participated in guided discussions about the history and impact of residential schools in Canada 
• Read-alouds and classroom activities helped students engage with stories that highlight Indigenous perspectives and experiences 
• Opportunities for reflection encouraged students to think about empathy, respect, and the importance of inclusion 
• Our school community wore orange shirts as a symbol of remembrance, solidarity, and commitment to reconciliation

Through experiences like Orange Shirt Day, our students are given the opportunity to ask questions, reflect, and better understand the world around them. It’s not about passing knowledge—it’s about building awareness, listening to different perspectives, and recognizing the role each of us plays in creating a more inclusive and respectful community.

A strong school community is built on mutual respect, meaningful connection, and a shared sense of belonging—values that guide everything we do. By creating space for conversations around truth, reconciliation, and Indigenous history, we empower our students to learn with empathy, act with respect, and contribute to a more just and understanding society.

Recognized for Excellence — Best Private School in Burlington 2024 & 2025

Ashwood Glen is honoured to be named Best Private School in Burlington for the second year in a row. This achievement reflects our dedication to future-focused, globally connected learning and our commitment to helping every student reach their full potential.

Ashwood Glen School
Inspire. Empower. Excel.
Proudly Burlington’s only accredited IB World School for the Primary Years Programme (PYP) — shaping future-ready, globally aware learners from Montessori to Grade 8.